Common name: Brown-banded pipefish

General information

The Reef Pipefish, Corythoichthys amplexus, is a captivating and slender fish that adds a unique dynamic to a reef aquarium. Known for their elongated bodies and tubular snouts, they are closely related to seahorses and belong to the family Syngnathidae. Their coloration is quite variable, often displaying beautiful patterns that help them blend into their surroundings.

Care

Reef Pipefish require a well-established aquarium with plenty of live rock and hiding places. They are delicate and can be sensitive to water quality, so stable conditions and excellent filtration are crucial. They feed on small, live foods such as copepods and brine shrimp, and may require multiple feedings per day due to their slow, continuous feeding habits.

Reproduction

Like seahorses, male Reef Pipefish carry the fertilized eggs. The female deposits eggs into a specialized brood pouch located on the male's underside, where he fertilizes and carries them until they hatch. This fascinating reproductive strategy is a draw for many hobbyists interested in breeding marine fish.

Habitat

Corythoichthys amplexus is found in the Indo-Pacific region, typically in shallow coral reefs and seagrass beds. They are often observed hovering near branching corals or within the shelter of seagrass, where they can easily camouflage and hunt for small prey.